It will take place for the first time in the town at Bedford’s Priory Park on Saturday, June 13.

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life family events also includes the 5k and 10k courses, which thousands of women will take on starting from Russell Park and The Embankment on Sunday, June 14 to raise money for life-saving research.

Event manager Cara Waller said: “We’re so excited about launching Race for Life Pretty Muddy in Bedford. The event is taking place in the town for the first time and we’re calling on local ladies to sign up now. We’ve no doubt that they’ve got the fighting spirit to get down and dirty in the bid to beat cancer sooner.

“Pretty Muddy promises all the fun and camaraderie of our much loved 5k and 10k events – just with an extra serving of mud.

“Race for Life events are not competitive. They are not about being fit or fast. Women can complete the Pretty Muddy course at their own pace, climbing, jumping, walking and laughing their way around. It’s about an army of women coming together in the fight against cancer.

“If you’re looking for an opportunity to get the New Year off to good start, this is the time to commit to Race for Life. With fire in their bellies and trainers at the ready, we know that Bedford ladies are up for the challenge.”